The Story of Hong Gildong

Read Kang’s “A Note on the Translation” (xxi-xxiii). How many Korean versions of the text are there, and how did he choose which one to translate? How might the English version have been different if he had chosen one of the other texts?

How does The Story of Hong Gildong relate to Korean culture and identity? Why did the story achieve such iconic status?

When Minister Hong locks Gildong away in the cottage, one of the texts Gildong masters is the Six Secret Teachings, an ancient Chinese text on military strategy. What are the six secret teachings, and how do they inform Gildong’s approach to banditry and military conquest?

Gildong’s use of magic is an important element in the novel. Choose one example of Gildong using magic or sorcery and discuss how it relates to the novel’s key themes.

Discuss the representation of female characters in the novel. What roles did women play in Joseon society, and how do the noble, commoner, and lowborn female characters in the novel reflect these roles?

Why does Gildong help the Taesobaek Mountain bandits rob Haein Monastery? Is there evidence in the text that the monks there are corrupt, or is Gildong simply trying to prove himself worthy of becoming the bandits’ leader? If it is the latter, how does this fit into Gildong’s moral code?

Mourning rituals played an important role in Joseon culture. How does Gildong mourn his parents’ deaths? Is there a difference based on their gender and status? Cite evidence from the text.

Consider Gildong’s relationship with the King of Joseon. Why does Gildong ask to be made minister of war if he knows that he is going to reject the title? Are there any circumstances under which Gildong could have stayed in Joseon and faithfully served the king? Why or why not?